A Center of Innovation award will focus on the identification, development and the commercialization of research within a specific biotechnology-dependent industry.
These awards are intended to catalyze the state's efforts in the research and commercialization of strategically-selected biotechnology-dependent industries.
The timeline of funding awards will be driven by the requirements of the business plan the applicant will develop during Phase I. The awards will consist of a 12-month $100,000 planning grant. Phase I funding is a pre-requisite for Phase II funding, although the award of a Phase I Center of Innovation request does not guarantee that a Center of Innovation will be established.
Phase II
More information about the Phase II process will be provided later. All Phase II award funding is contingent upon legislative approval of the Biotechnology Center 2007-2009 budget request. Phase II awardees will receive up to $2.5 million awarded over four years, contingent upon completion of targeted milestones.
Who May Apply
Only invited applicants may apply. Please contact the Biotechnology Center if you are interested in applying and think you have a collaboration in place capable of meeting the Phase I requirements.
Funding Restrictions
Phase I funds may be used for the following purposes:
- Market research (this should be a priority activity)
- Project Director release time and fringe benefits
- Salary and fringe benefits for key project personnel (including summer salary)
- Travel for planning meetings directly related to the project
- Expenses related to conferences and events directly relevant to the project
- Limited legal fees
- Consultants
Grant funds may not be used for building construction or renovation, out-of-state collaborators, office supplies, overhead and indirect costs or tuition. In addition, funds are not intended for direct laboratory research costs.
Please contact the Biotechnology Center staff with any questions about allowable budget items prior to formal submission.